2006 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Ford Escort

To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Audi A3 1980 Ford Escort
Make Audi Ford
Model A3 Escort
Year Released 2006 1980
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1968 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 96 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 132 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 207 km/hour 177 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 895 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 3980 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2400 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 40 L